Masayuki Oki Reveals: Photographing Cats Is Like Photographing Celebrities

“Photographing cats feels similar to photographing celebrities. Especially those big names you can’t just casually ask to strike a pose.”

These are the words of popular cat photographer Masayuki Oki, who has published 21 cat-themed photo books, including the hit title “Hisshi Sugiru Neko” (Tatsumi Publishing), which sold over 50,000 copies. His latest photo book, “Kore Neko Sore Neko?” (Impress), is set for release on March 5. Ahead of this, a photo exhibition is being held in Tokyo from February 21 to March 6.

We spoke with Oki about the joys and challenges of photographing cats.

 

 

It’s almost like photographing a big star

Oki first began photographing cats in 2013, and it all started with an encounter with a single cat.

“When I was still working as a salaryman, I met a cat during a break, who would later be named ‘Busa-nyan-senpai.’ The cat had a gray spiral-patterned coat, similar to an American Shorthair, but with a slightly squished nose like an Exotic Shorthair. It looked like a house cat, yet I was surprised to find it outside. At the time, I had a preconceived notion that ‘house cats that look like house cats must be skinny when they’re outdoors,’ but ‘Busa-nyan-senpai’ was plump, almost like a pampered body. It was a cat completely different from what I imagined, and it piqued my interest, so I started taking pictures.”

Capturing a cat’s inner world isn’t easy. This is why Oki compares it to photographing a star so famous that you can’t even give them directions.

“The control of the shoot is always with the subject. I adjust to their pace, and if I sense that they’re not in the mood to be photographed, I just sit still and wait. By visiting multiple times, you start to understand their quirks and personality, so it feels like I’m taking the photo when they’re in the right mood.”

Since becoming a cat photographer, Oki has realized that cats are not only attractive because of their appearance but also because of their inner qualities.

“Looking back, it’s obvious, but every cat has its own personality, and their relationships are just as complex as those between humans. At first, I was charmed by their appearance, but I soon realized that their inner qualities are just as endearing. That’s the allure of cats, and I want to continue capturing their inner world.”

When asked about his latest photo book, Kore Neko Sore Neko? (Impress), Oki shared:

“I’ve gathered unpredictable moments of cats that will make you do a double-take and ask, ‘Is this really a cat?’ Through the photos, I’ve captured moments that reveal the heart of a cat. I’m confident these images will bring a smile to your face. I’d be happy if you could take a look.”

How about enjoying the cuteness of a cat’s inner world, as captured by Oki?